Oil Base Primer Vs. Latex Primer House Paint

By Ryan Lawrence ; Updated September 15, 2017

Latex primer is preferred for most interior surfaces because it is easier to apply, less messy and lacks the offensive odor that emanates from oil-based paints. In addition, latex primer offers greater compatibility with interior paints. However, there are certain surfaces around the home that will reject latex primers. In these cases, oil-based primers are not only the preferred base coating; they are the only suitable option.

Bare Wood

Latex primer is the appropriate base coating for unfinished interior wood surfaces. Although oil-based primer can be used on these types of surfaces, it is generally not preferred, because it is incompatible with latex paint. Unfurnished exterior wood surfaces should be coated with acrylic latex primer, because it offers greater elasticity as a defense against varying weather conditions.

Stained Wood

Oil-based primer is the appropriate base coating for stained wood surfaces. Water-based latex primer will not adhere to stained wood because the stain is oil-based. Latex primer will eventually chip and peel from stained wood surfaces in the home.

Rusted Metal

Rusted metal in and around the home requires an oil-based red oxide primer to effectively prevent recurrence. Latex primers should not be used to coat rusted metal surfaces, as they will allow the rust to continue to spread.

Cleaning

Surface preparation is vital to primer adhesion. A tack cloth should be used to remove sawdust from wood surfaces. A pressure washer should be used to clean exterior surfaces. Inadequate cleaning can lead to primer adhesion problems.

About the Author

Ryan Lawrence is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado. He has been writing professionally since 1999. He has 10 years of experience as a professional painting contractor. Lawrence writes for High Class Blogs and Yodle. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations with a minor in history from the University of Oklahoma.